The practice will always do its best serve the access needs for those with disabilities. Please note that as we operate as part of the wider Hywel Dda Integrated Care Centre , we are bound by the governance in place set by the Health Board in regard to disability access. Please direct any concern you may have regarding access to Hywel Dda Patient Support Team on 0300 0200 159 If you would like to discuss any access particularly relating to the GP area, please contact the Practice Manager.
Latest Statement regarding mobility scooters:
“Considerations on the use of mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs accessing Cardigan Integrated Care Centre (CICC) was fully discussed during the design and planning stages of the development.
“Advice from the Senior Fire Safety Advisor of the NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership at the time indicated restrictions to access to buildings for certain types of mobility vehicles, including mobility scooters, due to safety issues. As a result, a decision was made to allow powered wheelchairs into the building but restrict access to mobility scooters as far as the main entrance.
“Following a review this week, the Management Team in CICC have agreed that this advice remains valid and as a result mobility scooters will not be allowed into the building, but can instead be parked under the entrance canopy to the left of the main entrance.
“The mobility scooter user can, if required, request assistance from the reception staff and wheelchairs can be found in the ground floor foyer to aid access to the remaining parts of the building.
“The reasons behind this decision are as follows:
- Certain mobility scooters are often referred to as Road Class scooters (Class 3)
- They are larger and more spacious than powered wheelchairs (Class 2)
- These scooters have a top speed of 8 mph and can be driven on the roads
- They are deemed roadworthy because they have lights at the front and rear and fitted with wing mirrors.
“Permitting scooter movement within the building could compromise the means of escape. The Health Board has a duty to ensure that all circulation routes are maintained and clear of obstructions at all times. Therefore it would be contrary to the principles of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order to have corridors partially obstructed by mobility scooters, which may be considerably bulky or heavy, potentially impeding the escape of other occupants.
“The health board is happy to revisit the current advice in the event of new guidance be issued.
“Our Patient Support Team are available on 0300 0200 159 should the patient wish to discuss their concerns with us.”
